metallic

adjective

me·​tal·​lic mə-ˈta-lik 

1

a

: of, relating to, or being a metal

b

: made of or containing a metal

c

: having properties of a metal

2

: yielding metal

3

: resembling metal: such as

a

: having iridescent and reflective properties

metallic paint

b

: having an acrid quality like that of metal

the tea has a metallic taste

4

a

: having a harsh resonance : grating

a metallic voice

b

: having an impersonal or mechanical quality

a metallic smile

metallically

mə-ˈta-li-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of metallic in a Sentence

We chose a paint with a metallic luster.

The medicine has a metallic taste.

Silver is a metallic element.

the metallic screech of the car's brakes

Recent Examples on the Web

The metallic structures evoke Stanley Kubrick’s 1968 film, which features similar monoliths—likely designed by aliens—that mysteriously appear during key moments of humanity’s evolution. —Julia Binswanger, Smithsonian Magazine, 21 June 2024

The big difference with Samsung’s new buds is a metallic silver color and some more angular features. —Jay Peters, The Verge, 20 June 2024

Carpenter’s slinky, form-fitting number featured a metallic finish embellished with crystal beads, and mint green lace that outlined her torso. —Angel Saunders, Peoplemag, 18 June 2024

Trends featured at the premiere included monochrome black dressing, pops of metallic and plenty of leather inspired by the film’s biker gang story. —Julia Teti, WWD, 18 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

metallic

adjective

me·​tal·​lic mə-ˈtal-ik 

1

: of, relating to, or being a metal

2

: containing or made of metal

3

: having a harsh or rasping sound

a metallic voice

Medical Definition

metallic

adjective

me·​tal·​lic mə-ˈtal-ik 

1

: of, relating to, or being a metal

2

: made of or containing a metal

3

: having properties of a metal